Robert D. Thompson, age 74, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2018, at the Avalon Place Nursing Home, New Castle, PA, surrounded by his wife and family. He was born on February 5, 1944 in New Castle, to James O. and Helen N. McConnell Thompson, and was a 1962 graduate of Laurel High School. Bob retired from First Energy Corp (Penn Power) in 1999 after 34 years in the Meter Department and Cedar Street Substation. He had a variety of pursuits and interests including service as a Pennsylvania State Constable, and time as a volunteer fire fighter with the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Department. From an early age Bob demonstrated a unique talent for solving complex problems, and was well known as the first one to call when you needed help. In his younger days he loved to build and fly model airplanes, and in his retirement was an active ham radio operator. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and dog, in his motor home to see as much of America as he could. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Diane M. (Rush) Thompson, his children Robert S. Thompson and wife Rena of Dumfries, VA, Shelley A. Bailey and husband Mike of Worland, WY, and Karen M. Kaminski and husband Scott of New Castle. He loved spending time with his eight grandchildren Shaun, Meagan, Adam, Sarah, Seth, Stephanie, Jonah, and Olivia. He is also survived by his sister Janet Johns, and is preceded in death by his parents and brother, James. Bob had a humble heart and wasn't one to stand on formality; he requested no memorial or graveside service be held and his family intends to honor those wishes. However, planning is underway for a Celebration of Life gathering, with an announcement of details at the appropriate time. The family requests donations in his honor to the Avalon Nursing Center or Three Rivers Hospice and Palliative Care for his life well lived. Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. where online condolences and shared memories may be offered to the family at www.cunninghamfh.com